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Updated: Jul 5, 2026
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Assessment of Cocaine-induced Behavioral Sensitization and Conditioned Place Preference in Mice
Published on: February 18, 2016
Treating cocaine body packers: the unspoken personal risks
Shamir O Cawich1, Eric W Williams, Lindberg K Simpson
1Basic Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, Mona, Kingston 7, Jamaica. socawich@hotmail.com
Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine
|April 22, 2008
Summary
Body packers smuggling cocaine present a unique challenge in Caribbean territories. This case highlights the difficulties in managing these individuals when they seek medical help independently.
Area of Science:
- Medical toxicology
- Emergency medicine
- Public health
Background:
- Cocaine trafficking poses significant challenges for Caribbean nations.
- Body packing, the ingestion of drug packets for transport, is a prevalent smuggling method.
Observation:
- Body packers may present to hospitals voluntarily or with companions, not solely when detained by law enforcement.
- This presents a complex management dilemma for healthcare providers.
Findings:
- The study details a specific case of body packing encountered in Jamaica.
- It underscores the need for protocols to manage such presentations.
Implications:
- Effective management strategies are crucial for both patient safety and public health.
- This case highlights the intersection of criminal activity, healthcare, and law enforcement in the Caribbean.
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